One of the most spectacular cinemas in Europe, Uránia was initially a nightclub, and then it became the scene of scientific lectures, and finally it began to function as a movie theater. Sadly, visitors cannot find any disco balls or dancing shoes around, but it’s still a good place to chill out for awhile before heading to the screening hall. Why? They have a charming retro-fashioned café on the first floor which is usually empty, making it a great hideaway; meanwhile, the basement houses Café Pashima, a must-see site for fans of Indian teas and specialties (their mango lassi is outstanding) – and both of these hangouts are open to the general public, so you don’t need to buy a movie ticket to visit.
Kino welcomes lovers of coffee and culture with two viewing halls – a bigger one that can fit up to 90 people, and a smaller one accommodating 37 people. However, most guests drop by here for the locally famous coffee, omelettes, toasted sandwiches, or salads instead of the films, especially because everything on the menu can be ordered all day long. Between the good food and the homey atmosphere, Kino is a perfect hangout spot – particularly when combined with a fine film.
Although the place is named Átrium Film & Theater, this historic Buda venue has a sporadic movie-screening schedule – usually only special cinematic presentations take place here. However, we couldn’t leave Átrium off the list, partly because it also hosts contemporary dance and drama performances (sometimes in English), and mostly because another Kino Café location is found here, proffering the same famous cheesecake, freshly prepared sandwiches, and various breakfast options as the Pest-side eatery. If you have an appetite for creativity and light cuisine, this is a great destination on the Buda side.
In the same building that houses Toldi Cinema, you can find Toldi Club; the latter is basically the venue’s lobby, featuring a full bar. Toldi Club is a café by day, and after the last screening, it transforms into an electronica and live-music club, equipped with a Martin Audio sound system. Many film festivals take place in the screening rooms, and about as many party series take place in the lobby – just to name a few: Pure Lust, Street Dreams, Nightdrive, and Monday Session. What else can you ask from one place?
Corvin Cinema is the only multiplex in Budapest that has its very own building, and so it is not surprising that there are other attractions housed here to keep filmgoers busy until show time. For example, Corvinpont offers healthy sweets and drinks for everybody: sugar-free pastries, syrups, smoothies, breakfasts, and cupcakes, along with vegan options on the menu. And let’s not forget that Corvin’s main lobby is among the most beautiful waiting areas in Budapest, with many seats to welcome everyone.
